Ubuntu was created with the intention of being a version of Linux that anyone could use. This extends to its installation process, which is highly automated and requires little knowledge of how the operating system will allocate your business computer's resources. For example, if your hard drive isn't partitioned into separate areas, Ubuntu will prompt you through setting it up as part of the installation.

Download a current disk image by going to Ubuntu's website and clicking "Get Ubuntu" and then clicking the link for the version of Ubuntu you want. Usually this will be the Desktop edition and the 32-bit version.

Burn the .iso file to a CD, DVD or USB stick, using an existing Windows, Mac or Linux computer. Most programs will know how to handle this filetype correctly, or will prompt you to create a bootable disk image.

Place your Ubuntu disc or USB stick into the computer you want to use and start it up. It will boot into an Ubuntu welcome screen, which prompts you to either try Ubuntu or install it. Choose "Install Ubuntu." You'll be prompted to ensure that your computer meets specific requirements.

Check the check boxes on this page, then click "Continue." Ubuntu will tell you there are no operating systems installed on the computer and ask how you wish to proceed. Click "Erase Disk and Install Ubuntu." Ubuntu will show you a new screen identifying your drive and telling you how much space is available.

Click "Install Now." Ubuntu will continue through the installation process, prompting you occasionally for input as needed. When installation is complete, you'll be prompted to remove the CD or DVD and reboot the system.

Things Needed

Working Internet connection

Blank CD, DVD or USB stick

Tips

If you plan to run Ubuntu together with a version of Windows, it's much simpler to install Windows first. When you install Ubuntu afterward, it will offer you the option of installing itself alongside Windows and partitioning the hard drive to allow both operating systems the room they need.

If you are an experienced user, you can also choose to create multiple partitions for specific purposes, such as storing data or running additional versions of Linux. To do this, begin the installation in the same way, but when Ubuntu points out that you have no OS installed, choose the second option, "Something Else." On the next screen, click the "Add" button to add a partition. The first partition you add will be your primary partition, by default. Set its size in megabytes as you wish, then press "Okay." Repeat, setting as many partitions as you wish, then click "Install Now" to resume the installation.

About the Author

Fred Decker is a trained chef and certified food-safety trainer. Decker wrote for the Saint John, New Brunswick Telegraph-Journal, and has been published in Canada's Hospitality and Foodservice magazine. He's held positions selling computers, insurance and mutual funds, and was educated at Memorial University of Newfoundland and the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology.